ASI Investigates Religious Chanting Incident at Taj Mahal
ASI seeks CISF report after tourists chant 'bhajans' inside Taj Mahal

Image: Deccan Herald
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has requested a report from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) after a video surfaced showing tourists chanting 'bhajans' inside the Taj Mahal. This incident occurred just before the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Zuha, raising concerns about adherence to regulations banning religious activities at the monument.
- 01The ASI has sought a report from the CISF regarding the incident.
- 02The chanting occurred inside the Taj Mahal, specifically opposite the main tomb.
- 03Religious activities are banned inside the Taj Mahal, with exceptions for 'namaz' on specific occasions.
- 04Hindu groups have previously claimed the Taj Mahal was originally a temple, leading to attempts to conduct religious activities there.
- 05A petition has been filed to recognize the Taj Mahal as a Hindu temple.
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The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has requested a report from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) following a viral video showing a group of tourists chanting 'bhajans' inside the Taj Mahal. This incident occurred just before the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Zuha and has raised concerns regarding the enforcement of regulations prohibiting religious activities within the monument. The video depicted approximately 15 to 20 individuals, including women, sitting on the marble floor and singing religious songs opposite the main tomb. ASI officials noted that religious activities are entirely banned at the Taj Mahal, with exceptions made only for 'namaz' on Fridays, during Ramzan, and on Eid. The incident has reignited discussions among Hindu groups who assert that the Taj Mahal was originally a Shiva temple, leading to past attempts to conduct Hindu rituals within the site. Additionally, a local court petition has been filed arguing that the Taj Mahal should be recognized as a Hindu temple and its management transferred to Hindu authorities, reflecting ongoing tensions over the monument's historical and religious significance.
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The incident raises concerns about the enforcement of regulations at a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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